It would be a lie to say that I wasn't as excited about this movie as much as the bunch of 5-year-olds tucking into their tubs of popcorn at the theatre as I settled down to watch 'Krishna Aur Kans'. Fortunately, I also ended up enjoying it as well.

Vikram Veturi's 'Krishna Aur Kans' will bring back memories from your childhood. It felt more like a rerun of Ramanand Sagar's 'Sri Krishna', only two hours long and in 3D animation. The story starts with Mathura being ruined under the rule of prince Kans, whose demonic ways, wickedness and illusory superiority have turned the city into a miserable place. Soon enough, Kans is warned that he will be challenged by his sister Devaki and brother-in-law Vasudev's eighth son, Krishna.

Fed on a hearty diet of mythology while growing up, one can easily predict what the evil Kans will do next. From killing his seven nephews, to Vasudev crossing the river Yamuna all the way to Gokul, from Kans sending the hideous Putna to poison baby Krishna, to the evil vulture-like bird Bakasur to attack Krishna, this movie feels like familiar territory for anyone who's watched the TV series.

The animation is simple, yet appealing and a few scenes, where Kans shows his wrath, are scary enough to make the hair on your arm stand up. Other scenes of Krishna stealing milk and butter from the Gopis are reminiscient of Sunday afternoon TV viewing from the 1990s.

Om Puri as the voice of Kans is a perfect fit. From his demonic laughter to his brooding tone, Puri's dialogue delivery is noteworthy. Juhi Chawla's voice as Yashoda is endearing though Manoj Bajpayee as Nand is hardly noticed. Veturi also makes mention of Radha, but a love angle between her and Krishna goes unexplored, barring one sequence where Radha is seen merrily dancing to the tunes of Krishna’s flute. The film is also perhaps a little too lengthy for kids, but keeps you engaged before you find yourself yawning a second time.

What to do?

'Krishna Aur Kans' is worth a watch. It offers nothing new, but is still a film you and your kids would both enjoy.

in.com rating: 2.5/5